Reece James jaw-dropping, Pedro Neto dismal – Chelsea ratings in win v Man United
Reece James’ moment of magic set up Marc Cucurella for a vital match-winner as Chelsea beat Man United 1-0.
A collective sigh of relief was let out at full time, with the Blues just about squeaking past the Red Devils to claim an all-important three points.
In a nervy first half for Enzo Maresca and his side, Harry Maguire had the ball in the back of the net before it was ruled out by VAR.
However, Chelsea responded by coming out with more attacking verve, looking to take advantage of their opponents defensive frailty.
With their attackers struggling, James and Cucurella took charge and, following a stunning stop and turn, the right-back picked out the left-back, who headed home, giving the Blues all three points.
Chelsea will face Nottingham Forest in the final game of the season, knowing a win will guarantee them Champions League football next season.
Chelsea earn vital three points against Man United
Robert Sanchez – 7
Strong performance. Sanchez has his doubters, and they are often vindicated, but against United the Spaniard was a reliable presence between the stick.
Reece James – 9 – Player of the Match
Stunning. James has endured a difficult season once again, but his Dimitar Berbatov-esque stop and turn, before curling a delightful cross into the box was a sight to behold. Sheer quality from the Blues’ captain.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 7
Composure personified. Adarabioyo is the perfect blend of being calm on the ball and mean off it. Gave the lonely Hojlund little chance to have any impact on the match.
Levi Colwill – 8
Battler. Colwill had his shirt pulled off by Rasmus Hojlund, but that was the only time the Danish striker got the better of Chelsea’s defender. Top performance from the centre-back.
Marc Cucurella nets match-winner for Chelsea
Marc Cucurella – 8
Match-winner. The Spaniard has developed a knack for scoring important goals, and his strike against United could be worth in the hundreds of millions if it secures them Champions League football.
Moises Caicedo – 8
Steady presence. The Ecuadorian was back in midfield after three games at right-back, and he ran the show, dominating the midfield battle.
Enzo Fernandez – 7
Real Madrid are interested in Fernandez, and it is easy to see why: a tidy passer who drives his team forward, another good performance from the Argentine.
Pedro Neto (off for Gusto 90′) – 3
Ineffective. The Portuguese winger’s first season in West London has been stop-start, and against United, Patrick Dorgu and Luke Shaw had little difficulty dealing with the former Wolves man.
Cole Palmer – 7
Palmer has been nominated for the Premier League’s Young Player of the Year award, and whilst he failed to find the back of the net, the ex-Man City man was a constant thorn in the Red Devils’ side.
Noni Madueke struggles for Chelsea v Man United
Noni Madueke – 4
Mr inconsistent. When Madueke is firing, there is little that any defender can do to stop him, but when he is not, the Englishman goes missing. Against United it was the latter.
Tyrique George (off for Lavia 81′) – 5
Fortunate to avoid bookings for an elbow on Harry Maguire and a dive that initially earned a penalty, before being overturned, lacked end product as a striker.
Substitutes
Romeo Lavia (on for George 81′) – 7
Added some good defensive solidity to the midfield in the closing stages.
Malo Gusto (on for Neto 90′) – 6
Brought on in the final few minutes to add a defensive body. Broke through at the other end with a chance to score his first Chelsea goal before tripping over his own feet.